Former Inter striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has criticised Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli by calling him 'mediocre'.

Former Inter striker ZlatanIbrahimovic has criticised Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli by calling him 'mediocre'.

The Sweden international allegedly sent a text message to an unnamed colleague at Barcelona, when asked about the possibility of Real Madrid signing the Italian youngster.

“Balotelli to Madrid? I can't see it, more like Barcelona. Mediocre team, mediocre player.” Website diez.hn has alleged was his response.

If the claims are true, it will not be the first time the 31-year-old has openly criticised a member of the footballing fraternity . Ibrahimovic has previously commented unkindly on former boss Pep Guardiola, following his ill-fated season at Camp Nou.